Chitarrone meaning

A chitarrone is a large lute with an extended neck and additional bass strings, popular in the Baroque period for accompaniment in vocal and instrumental music.


Chitarrone definitions

Word backwards enorratihc
Part of speech noun
Syllabic division chi-tar-ro-ne
Plural The plural of the word "chitarrone" is "chitarroni."
Total letters 10
Vogais (4) i,a,o,e
Consonants (5) c,h,t,r,n

What is a Chitarrone?

Chitarrone is a large string instrument that originated in Italy during the late Renaissance period. It is also known as the theorbo, which is a type of lute that has an extended neck with additional bass strings. The chitarrone is commonly used in Baroque music and is known for its rich and resonant sound.

History and Development

The chitarrone first appeared in Italy in the early 17th century and quickly gained popularity among musicians and composers of the time. It evolved from the smaller Renaissance lute and was designed to have a deeper and more powerful sound. The instrument's unique construction allowed for a greater range of notes, making it ideal for solo performances and accompaniment in ensemble settings.

Construction and Design

The chitarrone typically features a long neck with two sets of tuning pegs, one for the regular strings and one for the additional bass strings. It has a large, pear-shaped body with intricate decorations and ornate carvings. The strings are made of gut or nylon, and the instrument is played using a combination of plucking and strumming techniques.

Playing Techniques

Playing the chitarrone requires a high level of skill and dexterity. The musician must be able to navigate the instrument's long neck and multiple strings effectively. Techniques such as fingerpicking, arpeggios, and rapid scale passages are commonly used to bring out the instrument's full range of expression.

Usage in Music

The chitarrone was widely used in Baroque music, both as a solo instrument and as part of the basso continuo in ensembles. It was frequently employed in opera, chamber music, and religious compositions of the time. Composers such as Claudio Monteverdi, Girolamo Frescobaldi, and Johann Sebastian Bach wrote music specifically for the chitarrone.

Legacy and Influence

Although the chitarrone fell out of favor in the late 18th century with the rise of the modern guitar, it has experienced a revival in recent years. Contemporary musicians and ensembles have rediscovered the beauty and versatility of this unique instrument, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive in the world of classical music.


Chitarrone Examples

  1. He played a beautiful piece on the chitarrone during the concert.
  2. The chitarrone is a type of lute popular in the Baroque era.
  3. She studied historical performance practice on the chitarrone.
  4. The chitarrone player added a unique texture to the ensemble.
  5. I listened to a recording of a virtuoso chitarrone player.
  6. The chitarrone has a deep, rich tone that complements the harpsichord.
  7. He spent hours practicing the intricate fingerings on the chitarrone.
  8. The chitarrone is often used in early music ensembles.
  9. She tuned the chitarrone carefully before the performance.
  10. The chitarrone is a versatile instrument capable of playing both solo and accompaniment parts.


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  • Updated 09/05/2024 - 23:10:06